Psychology

Introduction

This engaging and effective qualification introduces students to the fundamentals of psychology, developing critical analysis, independent thinking and research skills. Psychology is the study of the inner workings of the human mind and human behaviour. Students will gain a valuable insight and understanding of what makes us think, feel and act in certain ways. The A level course offers multiple gateways into careers and higher education courses and is highly regarded by universities.

KS5

A level Psychology

Specification Code: 8121
Level: A level
Examination Board: AQA

Year 12

Curriculum

• Component 1: Introductory topics
  • Memory
  • Social Influence
  • Attachment
  • Psychopathology
• Component 2
  • Approaches in psychology
  • Research Methods
  • Biopsychology

Assessment

Component 1 – Introductory Topics
Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes (AS content)

Component 2 – Biopsychology, Research Methods and Approaches
Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes (AS content)

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find sociology resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

• The library is your most useful resource! Our school library houses a range of theoretical texts to support and develop tour wider knowledge of the course.
• Tutor2U – this website covers all of the compulsory and optional topics for the AQA specification. It is a wonderful revision tool!
• AQA – the examination board’s website is an invaluable revision tool. Here you can find past exam papers, mark schemes and examiners’ reports.
• PMT – has a number of A Level revision resources available.

Year 13

Curriculum

In Year 13, we revisit the units studied in Year 12. In addition, students will study:

• Issues and Debates
• Research Methods 2
• Schizophrenia
• Relationships
• Aggression

Assessment

Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology
Written examination – 2 hours – 33.3% of A level

Paper 2: Psychology in Context
Written examination – 2 hours – 33.3% of A level

Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology
Written examination – 2 hours – 33.3% of A level

Further Resources

The school has a subscription to The Day, an online news service for schools. Click the button to the right, then browse ‘Subjects’ in the top menu to find sociology resources.

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 13 curriculum.

• The library is your most useful resource! Our school library houses a range of theoretical texts to support and develop tour wider knowledge of the course.
• Tutor2U – this website covers all of the compulsory and optional topics for the AQA specification. It is a wonderful revision tool!
• AQA – the examination board’s website is an invaluable revision tool. Here you can find past exam papers, mark schemes and examiners’ reports.
• PMT – has a number of A Level revision resources available.

Extra-curricular

Extra-curricular activities include:

• Debating
• Research projects
• Trips to Law courts
• Lecture study days